Learning gain of an ATLS®-based interprofessional and multidisciplinary in-situ simulation training of trauma resuscitation

PURPOSE: Team performance in polytrauma management determines patient outcome and is crucially shaped by Crew Resource Management (CRM). This study explored patterns of self-perceived learning following an interdisciplinary, interprofessional, in-situ, simulation- and ATLS®-based trauma team training with a focus on CRM principles. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of routine educational data collected immediately after 36 training sessions (03/2022–11/2023) including 238 participants at a single Level I trauma center. Participants completed a retrospective pre-test/post-test self-assessment questionnaire. Exploratory analysis, including EFA, were used to descriptively structure self-perceived learning patterns and subgroup differences. RESULTS: Participants came from anesthesiology, surgery and radiology in equal proportions and differed in working experience, professional role, and exposure to polytrauma management. Exploratory factor analysis identified three descriptive dimensions of self-assessed CRM-related concepts: (i) personal operational competence, (ii) team communication, and (iii) decision making. Patterns of self-perceived change varied by experience level, with larger reported gains in personal operational competence among less experienced participants. CONCLUSION: This exploratory analysis describes patterns of self-perceived learning following in-situ trauma team simulation training. The findings should be interpreted as subjective learning perceptions at Kirkpatrick level 2 rather than evidence of long-term behavioral change. Self-perceived CRM-related competencies were enhanced in all professions and subspecialties, regardless of prior experience or trauma exposure. Future longitudinal and objective assessments are needed to evaluate transfer to practice and sustainability.